Warragul Burrowing Crayfish

What Can I Do To Help Protect Them?

Everyone can play an important role in helping to protect these unique and vulnerable crayfish, especially since many people wil have them in and around their own backyards! Developers and Land Managers The Warragul Burrowing Crayfish is endemic to the Baw Baw Shire and is listed under state legislation (Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1998) and various local policies. Therefore approval is required for any actions which may specifically impact upon them. This typically involves the preparation of plans to mitigate potential impacts. Consult Baw Baw Shire Council if any development work is being undertaken in land covered by natural waterways, drainage lines and seepages within the range of the Warragul Burrowing Crayfish. Baw Baw Shire Council provides guidance for developers to ensure Warragul Burrowing Crayfish colonies are identified and appropriate mitigation is in place to protect their habitat during land disturbance activities. Landowners and Local Community Determine if you have a crayfish habitat or chimneys on your property, in your yard, naturestrip, local park or school ground - take the test here. Protect crayfish habitat by: Protect streamsides and seepages from stock, especially during winter and spring Protect waterways from erosion through fencing and revegetation Do not disturb soil or alter draining patterns (don’t drain or flood habitat) and protect existing seepages and floodplain areas Retain native vegetation around wetlands and creeks Permanently protect suitable areas of habitat on your property by entering into a Conservation Covenant with Trust for Nature. For further information: http://www.trustfornature.org.au